Despite an onslaught of criticism in Germany over its controversial Street View service, Google has found a sympathetic ear as the German government prepares to address the issue of data regulation and privacy this winter. Germany's Interior Minister Thomas de Maiziere, who hosted a meeting of German officials and Internet company representatives, is seeking a middle ground between the two parties.

Google's controversial Street View service, which has raised privacy concerns in countries around the world, got the heave-ho from the Czech Republic Tuesday after failing to file for the proper registration to operate in that country.